The alcohol company behind the popular BuzzBallz drinks, known for rowdy nights out, has launched a new range of 99p flavoured shots in the UK. US brand Sazerac, which produces the brightly-coloured, tennis-ball-shaped ready-mix cocktails that sell for as little as £2.99 each with at least 13% ABV, is now introducing its '99' brand to British shores.
New 99 Shots
The new 99 shots come in 50ml bottles with flavours including Blue Raspberry, Cherry, and Apple, with more flavours promised. Each tiny serving has an ABV of 15%, significantly higher than classic alcopops like Bacardi Breezers and VK's, which had less than 5% ABV.
Marketing Campaign
To capitalise on young buyers' nostalgia for the early 2000s, 99 launched on Tuesday at universities in Birmingham, inviting students to 'put down pens and pick up a 99p shot and party like it's '99'. The event featured a 99 Liquor Whip, a travelling ice cream van, and a performance by 2000s dance group Milky.
BuzzBallz Popularity
While parents have expressed concern about colourful, fruity packaging appealing to young people and potentially encouraging underage drinking, BuzzBallz have become a staple for Gen Z nightlife in the UK. Since launching in 2022, sales have tripled in the past year alone, driven by social media, the trend for ready-to-drink cocktails, and the cost-of-living crisis. The potent 13.5% ABV content has led some young people to warn that the drinks are 'dangerous', as just a few sips can make them tipsy.
Origins of BuzzBallz
BuzzBallz were invented by Texan school teacher Merrilee Kick, who was inspired while grading papers by the pool. She craved a cocktail she could sip from a plastic container rather than a fragile glass. The spherical shape was inspired by a snow globe bought on a family trip to Sweden and a can of tennis balls. After earning an MBA, Kick researched and developed her concept, taking out a loan to launch the company with her family's help. Today, millions of BuzzBallz are sold across the US and internationally. The cocktails are made with real fruit juice or cream and premium spirits, and are packaged in 100% recyclable containers.
BuzzBallz Handbags
In December, the craze for BuzzBallz took a new twist when a range of handbags inspired by the pre-mixed cocktails sold out in 40 seconds. Each bag, worth £4,000 and inspired by high-end designers like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, was priced at just £3.99, the same as a BuzzBallz cocktail. Thousands joined a waiting list, and eight people secured the limited-edition accessories. Jess Scheerhorn, vice president at BuzzBallz, said each bag is unique but takes clear inspiration from classic designer bags.
